TAIPEI (TVBS News) — On Friday, September 27, Chiu Chui-cheng, Minister of the Mainland Affairs Council (MAC), highlighted the significant imbalance in group travel between Taiwan and China.
Chiu reported that fewer than 200 Chinese individuals have traveled to Kinmen and Matsu for personal or group visits, falling short of MAC’s expectations. In contrast, 138,000 Taiwanese travelers have visited China in groups, resulting in a striking 690-fold difference in group travel numbers.
The minister characterized this disparity as highly asymmetric and urged China to relax its travel policies to facilitate increased tourism from China to Taiwan. He called for immediate action to address the ongoing travel restrictions.
In June, various Chinese departments issued a judicial document comprising 22 provisions aimed at punishing pro-independence activities. Chiu noted that while China asserts these measures target a limited group of staunch pro-independence advocates, they also impact Taiwan’s military personnel and civilians.
Chiu advised Taiwanese citizens to carefully assess the necessity of traveling to China and to remain vigilant regarding their personal safety. He emphasized the importance of considering the associated risks in light of the current political climate.
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